Assistant Professor, Associate Professor, and full Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Overview

The Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering (CEE) in the USC Viterbi School of Engineering invites applications and nominations for a tenure-track or tenured faculty position at any rank in the area of Environmental Engineering, with a focus on aquatic and environmental chemistry. This position advances the department's strategic vision for sustainable infrastructure, resilient water systems, and protection of human and ecosystem health. Applicants must hold a doctorate in environmental engineering or a related field. Candidates at the Associate or full Professor ranks should demonstrate a distinguished record of scholarship, research leadership, and professional achievement commensurate to the rank.

Areas of research interest

The department seeks candidates whose research advances fundamental and applied knowledge in water quality, treatment, and sustainability. Areas of particular interest include:

• Contaminants of emerging concern in the environment, including PFAS and microplastics in engineered systems
• Potable water reuse and related technologies for water sustainability and resilience
• Novel approaches to assess, mitigate, or eliminate environmental contaminants
• Effects of environmental contaminants on human and ecosystem health

Collaboration and centers

The successful candidate will have opportunities to participate in interdisciplinary collaborations through USC's Water Reuse and Resource Recovery (ReWater) Center and the Southern California Superfund Research and Training Program for PFAS Assessment, Remediation, and Prevention (ShARP) Center.

Position start date and application

This position is available beginning August 16, 2026. To receive full consideration, applicants should apply online at:

Application materials must include: a cover letter, curriculum vitae, a statement of research interests (2 pages), a statement of teaching interests (1 page), and contact information for five references. Applications completed by December 5, 2026 will receive full consideration; materials submitted after this date may not be considered. All application materials will be held in confidence. For more information, contact Professor Adam Smith ( ).

About USC and Los Angeles

USC is a globally renowned private research university. Located in Los Angeles, USC offers opportunities through its connections with tech firms, research institutions, and government agencies. Los Angeles is pursuing large-scale potable water reuse initiatives, including plans to recycle 100% of wastewater by 2035. Through programs such as the Hyperion 2035 initiative and partnerships with the ReWater Center, USC supports advanced treatment technologies and research for a safe, sustainable, and resilient local water supply.

Department and school information

The Sonny Astani Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering is supported by philanthropic commitments and is home to 30 tenured/tenure-track faculty members, chaired professorships, and recognition for Young Investigator and Early Career awardees. The department recently renovated its laboratories with support from the USC Viterbi School.

Compensation

The USC Viterbi School of Engineering is committed to equity and competitive compensation. The annual base salary (9-month) range for this posting is:

• Assistant Professor: $114,000 – $135,000
• Associate Professor: $135,000 – $162,000
• Professor: $173,000 – $236,000

Equal opportunity and accommodations

USC is an equal-opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, protected veteran status, disability, or any other characteristic protected by law. USC provides reasonable accommodations for applicants and employees with disabilities. For accommodation requests, contact USC Human Resources at or